Leeds United extend Liam Bridcutt loan and he could leave Sunderland permanently in summer

Chris Young

Liam Bridcutt's Sunderland career is close to ending after he extended his loan deal at Leeds United until the end of the season.

Bridcutt has proved a success at Elland Road after making eight appearances for Leeds since joining them on loan in November.

The 26-year-old had failed to feature at all under either Dick Advocaat or Sam Allardyce at Sunderland this season, with both considering him surplus to requirements.

And now Bridcutt has rubber-stamped an extension to his loan deal, with a view to a permanent switch next summer.

Leeds boss Steve Evans said: "I like players who prove a point and Liam has done exactly that since he first arrived. He’s made a big impression here and has become a fans’ favourite in short space of time.

"We’ve got him until the end of the season but if he continues the way he has been playing, then it puts us in a good position to speak to Sunderland about keeping him in the summer."